'don't expect any more players coming in between now and next season.'

That was the blunt warning from Cardiff Blues head coach Dai Young today - in spite of evidence from the weekend's dismal EDF Energy Cup semi-final display that screamed for the opposite.

The Arms Park region has signed second row Paul Tito, former Wales captain Gareth Thomas and scrum-halves Jason Spice and Richie Rees for next season, with Mike Phillips leaving for the Ospreys on a big-money contract.

But the side needs more first-class arrivals if they are to hold their own against the elite sides.

But the coach is not getting anyone's hopes up.

'Hopefully this week we can confirm our signings for next season,' said Young, who has pledged not to announce any names that have not already been made public.

'I do not then envisage further signings.'

The Blues have still not recruited an outside-half who can put any pressure on Nicky Robinson following the departure of Phillips and the back five of the pack remain short of brute strength.

Meanwhile, Tom Shanklin, Gethin Jenkins and Xavier Rush are all to be out of contract at the end of next season.